The Raclin Murphy Museum of Art is hosting a special exhibition, “Bridging Time and Place,” to celebrate 150 years of Notre Dame’s art collection. This display features 107 newly acquired pieces, such as paintings, sculptures, and photographs, all gifts from donors marking this milestone. The exhibition runs through June 14.
Notre Dame’s art collection began in 1875 with Bishops’ Memorial Hall, showcasing portraits and artifacts of American Catholic history. Unfortunately, most of this collection was lost in a fire four years later. The hall was rebuilt quickly, and the art collection continued to grow, largely due to contributions from artists like Luigi Gregori. Over the years, the collection shifted locations on campus before settling in the Raclin Murphy Museum in 2023.
Museum Director Joseph Becherer describes the exhibition as “a sampling of the very best” from the anniversary acquisitions. He believes the university’s commitment to visual arts comes from its liberal arts focus, European roots, and the Catholic Church’s historical connection to art.
In 2022, the museum aimed to add 150 new pieces for the anniversary but exceeded that goal with 168 gifts, totaling over 1,300 new works. These acquisitions include a mix of European and American art, Indigenous artworks, and contemporary pieces. Notably, the collection features a painting of Notre-Dame de Paris from 1895 by Hippolyte Petitjean and a tattooed powwow drum by David Martin, an artist from the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi.
Becherer aims for visitors to have an emotional experience with the art. He says, “Art may be an inanimate object, but it triggers human emotion. Even quietly displayed, there’s a lot happening in the hearts and minds of the people in front of them.”
The importance of art in society has gained renewed attention, especially with recent studies showing that engaging with art can improve mental health. According to a survey by the Mckinsey Institute, over 70% of respondents reported feeling happier after visiting an art exhibition. As interest in art continues to grow, exhibitions like “Bridging Time and Place” play a vital role in connecting communities and sparking conversation.
For more details about the exhibition and the museum’s offerings, visit the [Raclin Murphy Museum website](https://raclinmurphymuseum.org).
